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A Lurker's History of Paradox and the Paradox Community *
by Stacy Rowley

[Editor's Note: All the graphics in this article (except the two icons) are links to a larger version of the same image. Placing your mouse pointer over the graphic will show popup and status bar info about what the photograph is. The larger images open in the same smaller dialog window, so you might wish to leave that window open while reading the article.]


The Early DOS Days: the Software

Paradox was different; it was menu-driven instead of command-driven. Shostak and Schwartz, augmented Paradox by allowing a user to record their keystrokes while manipulating Paradox menus, storing them in a script. Playing the saved script later reproduced that sequence of keyboard actions. More importantly, Paradox had a scripting language called PAL (Paradox Application Language), which extended the range and control of a Paradox application. PAL appeared simple, but it was powerful for its day and readily learned, often by people with no prior programming background. It "pressed the keystrokes for you" while adding capabilities. PAL was added after the interactive portion was about ready.

Paradox DOS v2.0 Paradox 2.0 was released in 1987, which added local area network multi-user capability, more PAL commands, and the Data Entry Toolkit. This toolkit extended control during data entry and editing and the primary person behind it was Ansa employee Mark Pauker. About this time, Borland acquired Ansa. (By the way, there is an excellent history timetable for Paradox on Frederic Brouard's web site.

Paradox DOS v3.0 Paradox DOS v3.0 titles Paradox 3.0 (January 1989), 3.01 and 3.5 (September 1990) expanded capabilities, which extended the ability to develop database applications. Version 3.0 featured expanded query operations, graphics, increased control in using color (Remember when monitors were only monochrome?), more efficient memory utilization, and much improved multi-table operations.
Paradox DOS v3.5 Version 3.5 incorporated a DOS extender to allow use of up to 16 Mb of extended memory in DOS protected mode. Note that in those days capabilities such as secondary indices were not yet present, things you take for granted today. Next up was Paradox Special Edition, or Paradox SE, for use at home or for a small business. Arriving on the scene in 1991 after Version 3.5, SE was Version 3.0 without network support, Data Entry Toolkit, or Borland manuals (just an independent book).

An important aspect to mention is the openness with which Ansa and then Borland treated the Paradox community. There were many contacts with leading application developers and with users. Borland also was supportive of third-party products and their developers.


Next:
The Early DOS Days: the People (the Community)


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